Fried Chicken with Breadcrumbs Recipe
Introduction
Fried Chicken with Breadcrumbs is an ultimate comfort food, crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether served at a family gathering or enjoyed as a delightful indulgence on a cozy evening. This recipe elevates the traditional fried chicken with a crunchy breadcrumb coating, seasoned with a blend of spices to keep your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive into the world of frying, where simple ingredients transform into a golden culinary masterpiece.
Kitchen Equipment Required
- Deep Fryer or Large Heavy-bottomed Pot
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Slotted Spoon or Frying Tongs
- Baking Sheet
- Cooling Rack
- Meat Thermometer
Ingredients
- 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) chicken pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or breasts)
- 480 ml (2 cups) buttermilk
- 200g (1 1/2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 100g (1 cup) breadcrumbs
- 5g (1 tsp) salt
- 5g (1 tsp) pepper
- 5g (1 tsp) paprika
- 2.5g (1/2 tsp) garlic powder
- 2.5g (1/2 tsp) onion powder
- 2.5g (1/2 tsp) cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by soaking the chicken pieces in buttermilk. Place the chicken and buttermilk in a large mixing bowl or resealable plastic bag. Ensure all the chicken pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a separate large mixing bowl, combine the flour, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Mix thoroughly until the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres. Place the coated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with a cooling rack and let them rest for 10 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better before frying.
Step 4: Fry the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 175°C (347°F). Carefully add the coated chicken pieces to the hot oil in batches, avoiding overcrowding. Fry each batch for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Step 5: Drain and Serve
Use a slotted spoon or frying tongs to remove the chicken from the oil. Transfer the chicken to a cooling rack set over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Conclusion
This delectable Fried Chicken with Breadcrumbs recipe delivers on both flavor and crunch, making it a favorite among all ages. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, it promises to be the highlight of any meal. Serve it with your choice of dipping sauces or alongside classic sides like coleslaw and mashed potatoes for a truly comforting feast. Embrace the joy of frying at home, and watch how this simple dish becomes a staple in your culinary repertoire!
